Can you get herpes on your finger?
Overview. Herpetic whitlow—also called digital herpes simplex, finger herpes, or hand herpes—is a painful viral infection occurring on the fingers or around the fingernails. Herpetic whitlow is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
What does a whitlow on the finger look like?
Symptoms of herpetic whitlow include: swelling and pain in your finger. blisters or sores on your finger. skin becoming red or darker than your usual skin tone.
How common is herpes on finger?
A whitlow is an infection of the fingertip, and there are several types; herpetic whitlow strikes about 2.5 per 100,000 people each year. The infection poses a serious risk.
What causes a whitlow on your finger?
Herpetic whitlow, or whitlow finger, is a painful infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are different strains of the herpes simplex virus (HSV), including HSV-1, the main cause of cold sores, and HSV-2, the main cause of genital herpes. Both of these strains can cause herpetic whitlow.
What does a finger infection look like?
The area is usually red, and a visible collection of pus may be seen under the skin. The swollen area may have a portion that feels soft as if it contains fluid. As the swelling continues, the area may become tense or hard to the touch. Herpetic whitlow: The fingertip area will be red and tender.
How do I get rid of a whitlow on my finger?
Herpetic whitlow doesn’t require treatment. The condition usually heals within a few weeks without medication, but a prescription antiviral drug can shorten the duration of an outbreak. Antivirals are only effective when taken within 24 hours of developing symptoms.
How do you treat finger herpes?
How is herpetic whitlow treated?
- taking a pain reliever — such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen — to help reduce pain and fever.
- applying a cold compress several times a day to help reduce swelling.
- cleaning the affected area daily and covering it with gauze.
What ointment is good for whitlow?
In primary infections, topical acyclovir 5% has been demonstrated to shorten the duration of symptoms and viral shedding. Oral acyclovir may prevent recurrence. Doses of 800 mg twice daily initiated during the prodrome may abort the recurrence.
When should I be worried about an infected finger?
These types of infections can cause long-term problems if they are not treated quickly. See your doctor right away if you have trouble moving your fingers, if your entire finger is swollen, or if touching your finger hurts badly.
What can I put on an infected finger?
A simple infection of the finger can be treated by soaking it in: A mixture of pre-boiled warm water with antibacterial soap for 15 minutes, two to four times a day. Water with Epsom salt to soothe the area and provide pain relief.
What is the home remedy for whitlow?
You can treat herpetic whitlow at home by:
- taking a pain reliever — such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen — to help reduce pain and fever.
- applying a cold compress several times a day to help reduce swelling.
- cleaning the affected area daily and covering it with gauze.